San Diego, CA – Southern California residents should prepare for foggy mornings, changing travel conditions, and a major shift in the weather pattern as the region heads into the first days of winter and the Christmas holiday week.
Meteorologists say the quiet, mild weather won’t last long, with dense fog this weekend followed by rain from an incoming atmospheric river next week.
Widespread Fog Causes Travel Concerns
A thick marine layer is expected to bring widespread fog overnight and into Saturday morning, with visibility dropping significantly in many coastal and inland areas. Forecasters warn that the fog could be even more extensive than previous nights, lingering well into the morning hours.
This has already had a noticeable impact on travel. Multiple flights have been delayed at San Diego International Airport, and officials say travelers should expect similar issues Saturday night into Sunday morning.
Drivers are also urged to use caution during early morning commutes, as low visibility could affect highways, surface streets, and coastal roadways.
Travel alert highlights:
- Reduced visibility during overnight and early morning hours
- Possible flight delays or cancellations
- Slower traffic on major roadways
Residents with weekend travel plans are encouraged to double-check flight statuses and allow extra time for driving.
Pleasant but Cooling Temperatures Before the Holidays
Despite the fog, daytime temperatures will remain seasonably warm on Saturday, especially inland.
Saturday’s High Temperatures:
- Coast: 63–67°
- Inland: 71–76°
- Mountains: 66–74°
- Deserts: 76–81°
While inland and desert areas continue to see summer-like warmth, forecasters say a cooling trend is developing as the region approaches the holiday.
Winter Officially Begins Sunday Morning
Southern California will officially welcome winter on Sunday, with the winter solstice occurring around 7:03 a.m. While temperatures won’t immediately feel wintry, the seasonal shift marks the beginning of a much wetter pattern.
Sunday morning may again bring fog and low clouds, similar to Saturday, before gradual clearing later in the day.
Christmas Week Brings Rain and an Atmospheric River
After weeks of relatively quiet weather, rain is finally returning to California just in time for the holidays.
Meteorologists say an atmospheric river will begin moving across the Golden State early next week, bringing increasing rain chances starting Tuesday.
Rain coverage is expected to expand and intensify by Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, with widespread rainfall likely across coastal, inland, mountain, and desert areas.
Forecast highlights:
- Rain chances begin: Tuesday
- Heaviest rain: Christmas Eve into Christmas Day
- Lingering showers: Through Friday
This system could impact holiday travel, outdoor plans, and road conditions, especially during peak travel times. While exact rainfall totals are still being refined, forecasters say residents should prepare for wet roads and slower commutes.
Travel Impacts Expected to Increase
With fog this weekend and rain next week, travel disruptions are a growing concern across Southern California.
Potential impacts include:
- Airport delays due to fog and low ceilings
- Slower highway travel during rain
- Reduced visibility in mountain passes
- Slick roadways during heavier rainfall
Travelers heading out for Christmas gatherings should monitor forecasts closely and plan for extra travel time.
Stay Weather-Aware
Meteorologists emphasize that while the rain is much needed, it can still cause short-term disruptions, especially for holiday travelers.
Residents are encouraged to:
- Use headlights in foggy conditions
- Check flight and road conditions frequently
- Stay updated on rain timing and intensity
- Follow guidance from local weather experts
Are you ready for foggy mornings and a rainy Christmas in Southern California? How will these changing conditions affect your holiday travel or outdoor plans?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation.
